Tony Smith backs Keiron Cunningham

John Yates

Long-serving Super League boss Tony Smith leap to the defence of his fellow coach Keiron Cunningham after Saints crashed to a 26-4 home defeat against high-flying Warrington.

Aussie Smith, who has been a coach in this country since the turn of the Millennium, said: “St Helens are not at their best at the moment and lost a key player in terms of their kicking game and that hurt them too.

“Without the injured Luke Walsh some of their usual spark was missing and it’s a tough position to be in. They are a little low on confidence and everyone is telling you you’re not doing well but they are still winning games.

“Keiron is a young coach who is very proud of his team and it’s a tough gig to have when you are in that position. This is a competitive league and it’s hard to win games.”